Cascais beaches in Portugal, Portugal beach information Arrive early at Cascais' beaches © Creative Commons / Courtbean Cascais beaches Visiting Cascais it is hard to believe that this vibrant resort was once a humble fishing village. A trio of sandy beaches, energetic nightlife and Cascais's close proximity to some of Portugal 's most prestigious golf courses, as well as its easy access to the country's capital, ensure the resort's popularity. Cascais also impresses holidaymakers with its marina, 16th-century fortress and an attractive old town. First-rate seafood restaurants that rival those in Lisbon , exclusive hotels, the Castro Guimaraes Museum (housed in a spectacular 19th-century mansion) and the exhibitions at the Cascais Cultural Centre mean that the resort has something to offer everyone whatever the season. Beach : Cascais's energetic street life spills over onto its town beaches (Praia da Ribeira, Praia da Rainha and Praia da Conceicao), so arrive early to squeeze in your towel. For better facilities head to Estoril's Praia do Tamariz with its salt-water swimming pool.

The surfers' paradise, Praia do Guincho, 9km (6 miles) northwest, is great for spectators, but strong currents means that swimming here can be dangerous. Beyond the beach : Cascais's old town boasts a clutch of historic buildings and ornate churches that fan out from the Town Hall Square. See Cascais's fishing industry at work at the harbour and daily fish market. Satisfy your cultural cravings at the opulent former home of the Counts of Castro Guimares: the Castro Guimaraes Museum located in the Municipal Park, or the Cascais Cultural Centre. Only 2km (1 mile) west the Boca do Inferno (Mouth of Hell) is impressive on a stormy day. Family fun : Cascais's beaches, tourist-orientated shops and the Museu do Mar, which retells Cascais fishing history, help keep children occupied. Cascais is also a good base for exploring Estoril, Belem and Lisbon to the east (kids will enjoy the train ride to these destinations) and the fairytale palaces of Sintra to the north. Exploring further : Sintra is quite simply one of Portugal's most alluring places.

The Portuguese nobles who took refuge in the cool mountain air over 500 years ago have left a legacy of colourful surrealist palaces than deserve their place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Splashing out : For a romantic meal splurge on mouth-watering seafood amidst the modern and elegant surrounds of 100 Maneiras ( ). You will also be rewarded with panoramic sea views. You may also be interested in: Cascais travel guide - Wikitravel 8 Get out Cascais is a small beach town in Portugal next to Estoril coast in the greater Lisbon area. Cascais, former residence of the royal family and pioneer of tourism in Portugal, is a very charming village. Dominated by the bay and the imposing Cidadela fort, the historic centre is brimming with architectural treasures of a religious, military and civil nature. Likewise, the museums of the Sea, Casa das Histórias de Paula Rego, and the Municipal Museum Condes de Castro Guimarães are also must-see attractions. Get in[ edit ] Cascais is easily reachable from Lisbon by car or by train (30min), from the Cais do Sodré station.

A return ticket costs approx 4€ (January 2016) and can be bought from the automatic ticket machines. Remember to keep the ticket as it will be checked and punched in both directions. Carris operate a bus between Cais do Sodre and Lisbon Airport every 20 mins. It is a yellow 'Aerobus' no. 1 and leaves from outside the terminal. Costs €3.50 one way (June 2014). Cais do Sodre is the last stop. A car ride between Lisbon International Airport and Cascais takes 30 minutes. Cascais, once a fishermen's harbour, is a nice and sophisticated town, also a great gateway to explore the beautiful gold sand beach of Guincho. Get around[ edit ] lighthouse The town is small enough to explore entirely by foot. To get a feeling for the life it's best to stroll around on foot. Uphill, beyond the town centre there are numerous narrow cobbled streets to explore with interesting architecture, plants and animals to see. By Bicycle[ edit ] Riding a bicycle in Cascais is one of the "must do" things.

From the beach you can venture further up the hill towards the westernmost point of continental Europe mainland and even Sintra using the nice roads while crossing the heart of this incredible nature reserve so close to the capital city of Lisbon Basic bicycles are available to rent for free (providing you have ID and your accommodation address) through the municipal council's BiCas scheme. Bicycles are available from several locations around the town. The tourist office will have further information. These bikes are heavily (mis)used by locals, students, and budget minded visitors and often not available when needed, when available most times not in the best safety and enjoyable conditions thus the common breakdowns. Other companies operating in nearby you better consider Lisbon companies so you can easily get there on train, get a bike to explore Lisbon and then bring over to Cascais with you, or have a bicycle delivered at your hotel doorstep.

Companies operating from Lisbon include Bike Iberia (Phone: +351 96 963 0369), [1] ), established in 1999 they are located in Lisbon Downtown right off the train station of Cais Sodre (end of the line from Cascais train station) on Largo Corpo Santo, 5. They are open Monday to Sunday from 9:30am offering Guided Bike Tours, Private trips, Group or family friendly activities. Road or Off-road, performance or relaxed, urban on country riding. From Children Bikes and Trailers, City bikes and Touring Quality bikes to Full Suspension or Carbon. From Sintra (you can take the Stage Coach hop on hop off bus)you may also consider Cycling Rentals (Phone: +351 92 213 4857), [2] ) who offer guided and self guided Road and Off Road day trips for all levels of rider. They have a good selection of race, touring, mountain and electric bikes available for local hire or extended rental and can deliver bike to your hotel or accommodation. Their office is located near the historic center of Sintra.

By Scooter, Moped or Motorbike[ edit ] Riding a Scooter bike is always a great and affordable way to get around Cascais, one of the "must do" things. From going to the beaches, riding around Cascais, Lisbon, Sintra or Cabo da Roca. Also the only way to cross over the bridges in Lisbon on two wheels. Quality Scooters are available for renting at affordable prices (you need to be at least 18, have your Passport and Valid Driving License). Riding around is generally safe, relaxed and lots of fun! Companies operating from Lisbon include Scooter Lisbon (Phone: +351 96 963 0369), [3] ) located in Lisbon Downtown right off the train station of Cais Sodre (end of the line from Cascais train station) on Largo Corpo Santo, 5. They are open Monday to Sunday from 9:30am offering quality 125CC vehicles with automatic transmission. Check with them for Scooter Guided Tours or Rentals from only a few hours to multi day rentals.

Beware that one day rental means the scooter has to be returned on the same day during working hours (until 6:30pm) and there is a higher price for a full 24h rental. Check your scooter very thoroughly when receiving it, or you will end up paying for the wear and tear caused by the other customers before you. By Bus[ edit ] A looped bus line, BusCas, serves the town and the nearby surrounding area. For travelling further afield there is an extensive bus service, mainly operating from the bus station beneath the shopping centre opposite the train station. Taxis are always available and easy enough to find in the centre of town. See[ edit ][ add listing ] Cascais is the dormitory of the Lisbon international working community and the "younger set" who enjoy the diverse and sophisticated nightlife.There is a famous beach and casino in Estoril. One of the most outstanding palaces is the Palácio de Conde de Castro Guimarães that is open to the public and exhibits its own grand private collection that includes over 25,000 books and such rarities as an illustrated book by Duarte Galvão(1455-1517).

Also, most of the pre-historic finds from the Grutas de Alapraia are stored here. These were a series of underground caves only discovered in the late 19th Century. The Grutus do Poço Velho are located in the centre of the town and date back to the Neolithic period. On a much more modest scale is the Museu do Mar that depicts the story of Cascais and its fishing history. Just outside the town is the famous Boca do Inferno in which the sea on rougher days hammers into the rock and creates a booming noise and a spectacular spray thus creating its name which in English means "mouth of hell". Boca do Inferno Guide Today, Cascais now boasts a smart new Marina with lovely yachts adding a further attraction to the town. The Parque Palmela is an attractive park created by the Duques de Palmela and now maintained by the Town Hall and in which open-air concerts are often held. Within easy reach of Cascais is the famous beach at Guincho with its high waves that attract windsurfers from all around the world as having some of the best rollers in Europe.

The next town to the east of Cascais is the resort town of Estoril with its popular Casino. You can walk to Estoril from Cascais along the beachfront esplanade, passing many beachside bars and restaurants. To the north and within easy reach is the romantic and fascinating town of Sintra and which was made famous to foreigners after a glowing account of its splendours recorded by Lord Byron. Do[ edit ][ add listing ] It seems that the Estoril Coast is a magnet for those looking to practice every type of sport and leisure activity. Besides excellent facilities and all the professional staff and necessary equipment, the region boasts a wide range of natural advantages such as pure air, temperate year-round climate and close proximity to the sea and mountains. Beginning on Avenida Rei Humberto II de Italia, just outside town past the marina, is a cycle lane and footpath extending the whole 5 km to Guincho beaches. This route runs beside the sea and is ideal for morning and evening strolls. The almost perennial North Atlantic sea breeze lends a refreshing air, especially during the hot summer months.

Along the way you will find Boca Do Inferno, the famed "Mouth of Hell", where there is also a snack cafe, seafood restaurant and vendors of touristy gifts. The marina area is very active. Sailing enthusiasts will find sailing schools open at the weekend, while regular competitions and leisure vessels can always be seen around Cascais Bay. On some of the beaches it’s very easy to hire boats and go water-skiing.: Like on the south coast, the big waves and strong winds on the west coast provide perfect conditions for surfing, windsurfing and body boarding. The world championships of these sports are regularly contested at the beaches of Guincho, Grande and Ribeira d’Ilhas north of Ericeira. Here, golfers will find a large number of courses concentrated in a very small area, the majority of which are designed by the world’s best architects. This means that you can choose from a wide variety of courses that cater for players of any age or ability, right up to the highest international standards. The mild and pleasant climate offers perfect golfing conditions right through the year.

Numerous golf courses are located in the area: Belas Country Club: Characteristics: 18 holes of 6,380 metres in length, par 72 Tel. (00 351) 219 62 66 40 Fax. (00 351) 219 62 66 41 e-mail: golfe@planbelas.pt, Alameda do Aqueduto, Belas Clube de Campo, 2605-193 Belas. Estoril Club: Characteristics: 18 holes of 5,262 metres in length, par 69. Tel. (00 351) 214 68 01 76 Fax. (00 351) 214 68 27 96 e-mail: geral@golfestoril.com Av. da República, 2765 Estoril. Lisbon Spots Club: Characteristics: 18 holes of 5,278 metres in length, par 69.

Facilities: trolleys, clubs and caddies for hire, golf academy, clubhouse, restaurant, bar, sauna, children’s games room, babysitting service available. Tel. (00 351) 214 31 00 77 Fax. (00 351) 214 31 24 82 e-mail: geral@lisbonclub.com, Casal da Carregueira, Belas, 2745 Queluz. Penha Longa Golf Resort: Characteristics: Atlantic course - 18 holes of 6,290 metres in length, par 72. Monastery course – 9 holes of 2,588 metres in length, par 35 Tel. (00 351) 219 24 90 11 Fax. (00 351) 219 24 90 24 e-mail: reservas.golf@penhalonga.com, Estrada da Lagoa Azul, Linhó, 2714-511 Sintra.

Quinta da Marinha: Characteristics: 18 holes of 5,845 metres in length, par 71. Facilities: 3 restaurants – Five Pines (hotel), Cosi Fan Tutti (clubhouse) and Monte Mar (on the Estrada do Guincho), bars with outdoor terraces, 6 tennis courts, 3 outdoor swimming pools, jogging circuit, fitness centre, bicycles for hire, children’s club Tel. (00 351) 214 86 01 80 Fax. (00 351) 214 86 90 32 e-mail: golf@quintadamarinha.com, Hotel Quinta da Marinha, Casa 36, Quinta da Marinha, 2750-715 Cascais. Oitavos Golf Course: Characteristics: 18 holes of 5,845 metres in length, par 71. Tel. (00 351) 214 86 06 00 Fax.

(00 351) 214 86 06 09 e-mail: oitavosgolfe@quinta-da-marinha.pt Quinta da Marinha, Casa da Quinta nº. 25, 2750 Cascais. Penha Longa Monastery: Characteristics: 9 holes of 2,588 metres in length, par 35. Facilities: putting green, chipping area with 2 bunkers, driving range with 2 grass bays. Buggies, trolleys (manual and electric), clubs and golf shoes for hire Tel. (00 351) 219 24 90 11 Fax. (00 351) 219 24 90 24 e-mail: reserves.golf@penhalonga.com Estrada da Lagoa Azul, Linhó, 2714-511 Sintra. Estoril’s famous motor-racing circuit hosts many important car and bike competitions, such as the Motorcycle GP Championships. It can also be arranged for individuals to experience the thrill of motor racing first-hand.

Racing Track, Fernanda Pires da Silva, tel: 214 609 500. The variety of forest paths and excellent facilities throughout the region are a major attraction for those who enjoy horse riding. Here you’ll find a good selection of riding schools where you can hire horses and learn to ride. Every year a five star equestrian event is taking place In Portugal called Global Champions Tour. It is a social gathering for all horse shows’ amateurs and professional riders at the Manuel Possolo hippodrome in Cascais. If the thrill of show jumping excites you, check what’s on at Quinta da Marinha or the Cascais Equestrian Centre. Estoril Coast Riding Centre, Charneca, Cascais Tel. (00 351) 214 87 20 64 Quinta da Marinha Riding Centre, Cascais Tel. (00 351) 214 86 94 33 D. Carlos I Country Club, Quinta da Marinha, Cascais Tel.

(00 351) 214 87 14 03 Manuel Possolo Equestrian Centre, Cascais Tel. (00 351) 214 82 27 50 Eat[ edit ][ add listing ] A selection of excellent food and drink can be found on the Estoril Coast if you know where to look. Cod, seabass, and squid are the most popular dishes, and many other types of seafood are available at good establishments. Within central Cascais good food, and especially good value, can be hard to find. Taking time to scout out genuine Portugese eating houses is worth doing however, as the tastiest and most interesting dishes often exist in tucked away more modest restaurants, where locals tend to dine. For the best food in town skip the "Indian", "Italian" and "English" restaurants and head into the residential part of town, or walk down the coast to an establishment with fresh fish and a sea view. Bacalhau occupies top spot in terms of culinary richness. You can choose from a 100 different recipes!

And if you’d like to try a typical meat dish of the region, we suggest Leitão de Negrais or Mercês-style pork. Find yourself a restaurant that takes its deserts seriously, and finish your meal with one of the local sweet specialties: Travesseiros, the famous Queijadas de Sintra, Fofos de Belas, Areias de Cascais or Trouxas de Malveira. Portuguese egg-based confectionary is unique and delicious, and a fine companion for some after dinner port. Vinho Verde, "green wine", is a refreshing, slightly sparkling accompaniment to Portugese meals, and shouldn't be missed. Portuguese red wines are on a par with those in France, Italy and Spain. The main demarcated regions are found in the Douro, Dão and Alentejo, but the Estoril Coast produces very small quantities of its own fine wines in Carcavelos and Colares, a rare pleasure that you might have the opportunity to try. Vinho de Carcavelos, Estação Agronómica Nacional Tel.

(00351) 214 40 35 00 Adega Regional de Colares, Open from 9am-1pm and 2pm-6pm every day. A tasting of these fine wines can be organised in advance for a minimum of 10 people Tel. (00 351) 219 28 73 33, Alameda Coronel Linhares de Lima 24, 2705-135 Colares. Baía-Grill (Hotel Baía Cascais), ☎ (+351) 214 83 10 33 ( reservas@hotelbaia.com ). The Baia Grill Restaurant stakes high on its kitchen as the Gastronomy Prize from the Estoril Tourism Office proves. Formalities are left aside and the focus is on the food, offering a varied selection of traditional Portuguese and International dishes, its specialties being the freshest fish and seafood. Allied to a good wine list, a friendly and unpretentious service and a fantastic terrace with the view of the bay in the background, it is a recipe for success.

*Panorama, Estr. do Guincho 2750-642. Tel: 21487 9458 *Restaurante O Pescador, Rua das flores nº 10 B. Tel: 00351-21 483 20 54. Fresh seafood fills the menu at this folksy restaurant, a favorite since 1964, where a cluttered ceiling and maritime-related artifacts distract the eye. Sole is a specialty, and this is also a good place to try bacalhau (dried salt cod); it's often baked here, either with cream or with port wine and onions. *Pop Sandwich. A tiny sandwich bar offering fresh-made baguettes, sandwiches and mini-pizzas along with the usual assortment of coffee and cold drinks. Found on the main shopping street, its bright green interior makes it easy to find. Run by an old Portuguese couple the food is fresh, delicious and unbelievably cheap. Great for a quick meal before heading down to the beach. A large sandwich and coffee should cost around 2€.

edit edit Pizza Itália, Rua Poço Novo 1, ☎ +351214830151. A very nice Italian restaurant. If the weather permits, enjoy the terrace, with a view over the Cascais bay. 25. edit Lucullus, Rua da Palmeira, 6A, [4] . An Italian and Japanese restaurant (with two separate kitchens). Choose among a selection of pizzas or pastas, or try the sushi buffet (€14) with a nice champagne and cucumber sangria. 25. edit Deli Portugal, [5] . specializes in award-winning and certified Portuguese gourmet products, with an offer comprising cheeses, smoked sausages, hams, wines, liqueurs, olive oil, canned foods, condiments, sweets, pastries and teas sourced only from brands, producers and regions representing the best and most authentic from Portugal. All products on offer are accompanied by historical notes, a selection criteria by taste note in wines category aiming to promote the large array of Portuguese native grape varieties through awarded wines satisfying the customer by confidence in a reasoned choice with the best value wines by taste note.

Orders in mainland Portugal have a special offer of no shipping costs. edit Drink[ edit ][ add listing ] Blue Bar Baia (Hotel Baía Rooftop), Av. Marginal 2754-509, ☎ (+351) 214831033, [6] . 18h-00h. The top floor sun-terrace Blue Bar is famous for its sunset lounge parties in the summer time. Offers a varied menu of cocktails and light meals or snacks but it is in the privileged space of the Blue Bar that you will experience the best views, surrounded by the blue of the sky, the pool, and of the ocean. It is a modern, refined space, and the perfect setting for the trendy summer sunset parties where the music combined with the soft LED lighting create a unique atmosphere. edit Budget[ edit ] The SALTY PELICAN Beach Hostel Cascais, Rua Madrid 6, 2765-424 Estoril, Portugal, ☎ +351 932 560 960 ( hello@saltypelican-cascais.com ), [7] .

Just a short 500 meter walk from the beach... Offers a safe and secure, social accommodation at a price that won’t break your travel budget. 24H reception, great atmosphere, unique experiences, free buffet breakfast, bicycle and skateboard rentals, surf school, beach yoga and of course FREE Wi-Fi! "> edit Hotel S. Julião, Pr. do Junqueiro nº 16, Carcavelos- Cascais Portugal, ☎ +351 21 4572102 (fax:+351 21 4566993) ( reservas@hotelsaojuliao.com ), [8] . edit Hotel São Mamede, Avenida Marginal, 7105 2765-607 Estoril- Cascais Portugal, ☎ +351 21 4659110 ( reservas@hotelsmamede.com , fax: +351 21 4671418), [9] .

24H reception, free buffet breakfast , free wi-fi, Close to Tamariz Beach, Poça Beach and a few steps from Casino do Estoril. edit Mid-range[ edit ] Pestana Cascais, Avenida Manuel Júlio Carvalho e Costa, 115 Guia - Cascais, 2754-518 Portugal, ☎ +351 21 482 5900 (fax:+351 21 482 5977) ( pestana.cascais@pestana.com ), [10] . edit Vila Galé Cascais, Rua Frei Nicolau de Oliveira, nº80 - Parque da Gandarinha, 2750-641 Cascais, ☎ (+351) 214 826 000 ( cascais@vilagale.pt ), [11] . Near the renowned Cascais Marina, absolutely perfect for wonderful holidays, corporate meetings, and special events. Online booking edit Hotel Baia Cascais (***), Av.

Marginal 2754-509, ☎ (+351) 21 4831033 ( reservas@hotelbaia.com ), [12] . checkin: 14h; checkout: 12h. The 3 star Hotel Baia in Cascais has the most privileged location on the Estoril Coast. Right in the center of town opposite the beach it offers breathtaking views of the Cascais Bay. After extensive renovations, it now offers 113 rooms, most of which have a balcony overlooking the sea and the remainder a view over the town of Cascais and the Mountains of Sintra. On the top floor you will find a covered, heated (in the winter) swimming pool and the Blue Bar, a sunset lounge bar where you can enjoy a drink or a snack while admiring the view of the bay as far as Lisbon. On the Ground floor, along its welcoming Sea-Front Terrace with Bar and Snack Service as well as free Wi-Fi internet access you will also find the reputed Baía Grill Restaurant famous for its gastronomy.

The Hotel Baia Cascais also has fully equipped Conference Rooms and Banquet Roomsfor up to 200 people as well as a private underground Car Park with a capacity of 90 cars. Close to all the local Golf Courses and other sports facilities, Cascais Marina and Sailing Club, Beaches, Racing Track, The Estoril Tourism Office and the historic Estoril Casino, this family-run hotel offers all its visitors a warm, welcoming atmosphere with a personal and friendly quality service. edit Splurge[ edit ] Hotel Albatroz Cascais, Rua Frederico Arouca Nº 100, 2750-353 Cascais -, ☎ +351-214 847 380 ( albatroz@albatrozhotels.com , fax: +351-214 844 827), [13] . Hotel Albatroz Cascais is located around 30km from Lisbon, this boutique hotel is a reference as a luxury hotel in Lisbon/Cascais Coast.

A set of 5 charismatic historical buildings turned into a luxury hotel with a unique location above the sea, also enjoying a wide view over the sea. At the hotel: swimming pool, restaurant, bar, terrace, free private parking, room service, and all services from a 5 star hotel. edit Pestana Cascais, Avenida Manuel Júlio Carvalho e Costa, 115, ( reservas.portugal@pestana.com , fax: +(351) 214825977), [14] . edit Lisbon: A capital city surrounded by beaches | Portugal Daily View Lisbon: A capital city surrounded by beaches Beaches Tips 4 Tourists Tours — 30 July 2012 by Carolina Antunes Adraga beach, just 45.5 km from Lisbon (Photograph: Luís Afonso) Lisbon is one of the few European cities surrounded by beaches. Catering to all tastes and sporting interests within 50 km of the capital there are beaches for water sports enthusiasts, families with children who love to play in the sand and swim safely in crystal clear waters, and those searching for a romantic getaway somewhere charming and secluded.

Praia das Maçãs: families and sports enthusiasts Praia das Maçãs translates as ‘apples beach’, dating back to when apples used to appear on the beach. When the fruit grown in the surrounding orchards was ripe, it fell into the water of the Colares river (also known as the Maçãs river) that flows into the sea here, carrying the apples. The beach is popular with families, bodyboarders and surfers. Surrounded by bars and restaurants, it features a large salt water swimming pool nearby as well as tennis courts and football grounds. There is a tram that runs from Vila de Sintra (the historic centre of Sintra) to the beach along the valley, making for a picturesque trip to the coast. Visitors are advised to check the tram timetable before heading to the stop as service is not continuous.

Blue flag: Yes Water temperature:18C Sand: Soft, golden sand Hotels/Snack Bars/Restaurants: Several restaurants on the road from Cascais – some among the best in the area and specialising in fish dishes – and snack bars Hotels: Fortaleza do Guincho, Hotel Quinta da Marinha Extras (Loungers/Beach Umbrellas/Parking etc): Beach umbrellas and sunloungers, parking (often difficult) Lifeguard: Yes Distance from Lisbon: 35.6 km MAP : Guincho, Estrada do Guincho, Cascais Praia da Ursa: Sintra’s natural treasure If you’re looking for paradise, this may be it: crystal-clear waters, natural beauty, imposing cliffs. Regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Praia da Ursa is stunning. Cradled between cliffs with soft sand and a small waterfall, it is a showcase for nature’s artworks. Access is extremely difficult and not for the faint-hearted, involving a short hike as there is no car access from the main road, and a very steep and perilous descent down the cliffs. Getting there by boat is the recommended option.

Because of its relative isolation, Praia da Ursa has retained its natural beauty, unlike many other beaches. Some nudists like it, but it is not an official nudist beach. Sand: Sandy with some rocks Hotels/Snack Bars/Restaurants: No Extras (Loungers/Beach Umbrellas/Parking etc): No Lifeguard: No Distance from Lisbon: 41.2 km MAP : Praia da Ursa, Colares, Sintra Praia da Morena, Praia da Sereia: Caparica’s 15km beach The beach along the Caparica coast is more like a series of beaches spanning 15 km with families playing together in the water or sharing a packed lunch under the cool shade of an umbrella. There are many different kinds of beach there, some with lifeguards, beach umbrellas, beach chairs, and bars like Praia da Morena and Praia da Sereia. If you’re driving, be wary of traffic. The bridge you need to cross (Ponte 25 de Abril) is frequently busy and it may take some time to reach your destination. If you’re using public transport, a train runs along the beaches but only during the summer months.

Please note that the north end of the coast is more family-friendly while the south end is more nudist and gay-friendly. Hotels/Snack Bars/Restaurants: Variety of snack bars and restaurants Extras (Loungers/Beach umbrellas/Parking etc): Some have beach umbrellas and parking Lifeguard: Some MAP : Praia do Meco: Official Nudist Beach Pretty. Calm. Moody. Violent. Strong. These adjectives have all been used hundreds of times to describe the ocean and Praia do Meco. It is normally a quiet beach, but the ocean can be temperamental. During stormy days, it unleashes strong currents while remaining stunningly beautiful. It is worth a visit as long as you exercise caution. Four kilometres long, it is also an official nudist beach at the southern end. For those who enjoy washing the salt off their bodies, there is a spring with fresh water that is also drinkable.

Water temperature: 19C Sand: Golden sand Hotels/Snack Bars/Restaurants: Toilets, restaurants, snack bars, hotels in Cascais are only a 5 minute walk away Extras (Loungers/Beach Umbrella/Parking etc): Beach umbrellas and sunloungers, small car park Lifeguard: Yes Distance from Lisbon: 32.6 km MAP : Praia da Rainha, Cascais Praia da Adraga: Natural beauty Praia da Adraga is another treasure in the greenery of the Sintra hills. Located in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, the beach is tucked away between cliffs but you can drive all the way down the valley to a car park. Rocks are dotted on the sand, creating an interesting hybrid landscape. In 2003, British newspaper The Sunday Times listed this beach among the 20 best in Europe. Parking is available but gets very crowded during the summer.

Sand: Sand with some rocks Hotels/Snack Bars/Restaurants: Toilets, snack bar, restaurants Extras (Loungers/Beach Umbrellas/Parking etc): Car park Lifeguard: Yes Distance from Lisbon: 45.5 km MAP : Praia da Adraga, Sintra Praia Grande: The bodyboarders’ beach Dinosaurs are still part of the landscape here. Praia Grande is a very long, sandy beach surrounded by hills with fossilised dinosaur footprints visible on the rocks and breathtaking panoramic sea views. A walk along the hills is highly recommended. A good beach for bodyboarders and surfers, it holds the international bodyboard competition Sintra Portugal Pro every year. Despite choppy waters, it’s a family-friendly beach mostly popular with teenagers and young adults.

Hotels/Snack Bars/Restaurants: Snack bars, restaurants, Hotel Arribas right in front of the beach Extras (Loungers/Beach Umbrellas/Parking etc): wheelchair access, toilets, snack bar, restaurants, parking (often full) Lifeguard: Yes Distance from Lisbon: 47.4 km MAP : Praia Grande, Sintra Praia do Tamariz: Nightlife and bars beach Strolling along the Cascais-São João do Estoril promenade, you’ll eventually come across Praia do Tamariz, right next to the Estoril train station. Small, with beach umbrellas, sunloungers and calm waters, it has a string of bars and restaurants along the promenade and becomes very popular at night thanks to the summer club sessions and the famous Estoril Casino nearby. The waters are clean, but there are some rocks and the occasional seaweed. During the summer, it can get very crowded. Hotels/Snack Bars/Restaurants: Restaurants, bars, toilets.

Hotels: several, including Hotel Palácio Estoril, Hotel Estoril Eden Extras (Loungers/Beach Umbrellas/Parking etc): Beach umbrellas, sunloungers, small car park (often full), Tamariz Swimming Pool Lifeguard: Yes Distance from Lisbon: 28.2 km MAP : Praia do Tamariz, Estoril Ericeira/Ribeira das Ilhas: The surfers’ beach The picturesque, compact town of Ericeira is home to some of the best surf spots nationwide and worldwide, offering various beaches with different levels of difficulty. One of them, Ribeira d’Ilhas, is regarded as best for surfing and has been hosting the World Surfing Championships since 1990. The car park and bar are open all year. Neighbouring Praia do Sul is also popular with surfers, features a hotel and is very easy to reach from the town centre. Water temperature: 16C Sand: Golden sand Hotels/Snack Bars/Restaurants: Bar and restaurants.

Hotel: several, among which Vila Galé Ericeira; several backpackers and surf camps also Extras (Loungers/Beach Umbrellas/Parking etc): Parking Lifeguard: Yes Lisbon and around Guide | Portugal Travel | Rough Guides Europe » Portugal » Lisbon and around Mainland Europe’s westernmost capital, Lisbon is a fascinating and inspiring place to spend a few days, thanks to its wonderful waterfront location, balmy climate and quirky range of attractions that combine a place-that-time-forgot feel with a modern vibrancy that few European cities can match. Although its modern suburbs are ungainly, the historic centre is relatively compact and easy to explore in just a day or two. The oldest part of the city, the warren of streets that make up the Alfama , sits below the spectacularly sited Moorish Castelo de São Jorge , its ruined walls facing another hill, the Bairro Alto or upper town, famed for its bars, restaurants and vibrant nightlife. The valley between these hills makes up the Baixa , or lower town.

This neat grid of grand eighteenth-century buildings was erected on the rubble of the earthquake which flattened much of the city in 1755, a planned commercial district rebuilt around the historic squares of Praça do Comércio, on the riverfront, and the broad Rossio. From here, the palm-lined Avenida da Liberdade is the main artery inland, rising to the green slopes of the city’s central Parque Eduardo VII. Key attractions beyond the historic centre include the fantastic art collection of the Museu Gulbenkian , just north of the park; the Museu de Arte Antiga west of the centre; and the modern art of the Berardo Collection, 6km to the west in Belém , the suburb from which Portugal’s great navigators set sail: the sublime Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is one of several monasteries built here to celebrate their achievements. Finally, 5km to the east lies the Parque das Nações , the futuristic site of Lisbon’s Expo 98, whose main attraction is one of Europe’s largest oceanariums.

A short way inland from Lisbon, the UNESCO heritage site of Sintra enjoys a cool mountainside location, which made it a favoured summer destination for Portugal’s royals – their ornate and extravagant palaces make for a fascinating day-trip. It is also just a short hop from Lisbon to some fantastic Atlantic beaches: locals favour the southern coast, with miles of sands along the Costa da Caparica or the small cove beaches between the historic port of Setúbal and the resort of Sesimbra . Easiest to reach, however, are the town beaches of bustling Estoril and the former fishing village of Cascais, both easily accessible by train. Brief history Named Allis Ubbo (calm harbour) by the Phoenicians, the administrative capital of Lusitania was renamed Olisipo by the Romans when they settled in the western half of Iberia in 210 BC. During the early 700s, Moors from North Africa began to exploit trading links from the city they called Lishbuna to their territories to the south, and the city flourished.

The Moors set up the Alcáçova – a Muslim palace – on the site of today’s castle and settled around some hot springs (alhama, today’s Alfama). In 1147, Catholics from the north under Afonso Henriques laid siege to Lisbon’s castle with a band of ruthless European crusaders and, after seventeen weeks of resistance, the Moors finally gave in – they were either killed or forced to live as “New Christians” in the quarter still known as Mouraria. In 1150, with Afonso Henriques now Portugal’s first monarch, the Sé (cathedral) was established on the site of the main mosque, and in 1255 Lisbon became the capital of a Christian country. The discoveries By the fifteenth century, Lisbon was the capital of an expansionist country whose navigational expertise had set up trading routes round half the world. Vasco da Gama sailed from Belém to open up a sea route to India in 1498, and within sixty years Lisbon controlled ports from Brazil in the west to Macau in the east.

Lisbon became one of the wealthiest cities in Europe, able to fund lavish buildings such as the Torre de Belém, the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and the palace at Terreiro do Paço. By the early eighteenth century, further funds flooded in from newly discovered gold in Brazil, but this second “golden age” came to a sudden halt with the Great Earthquake of 1755. Under the Marquês de Pombal, a new city was rapidly rebuilt in a grid pattern (today’s Baixa district), but Lisbon never recovered its economic clout. The city briefly flourished in the mid-nineteenth century when the Botanical Gardens were considered the best in Europe: a public works programme laid out the Avenida da Liberdade and financed a series of funicular street lifts to serve its hills. The Salazar era Political turmoil in the early 1900s saw the end of the Portuguese monarchy and ushered in the reign of Dr António de Oliveira Salazar, who ruled Portugal with an iron fist from 1928–68.

An economist, Salazar’s policies generated sufficient wealth to fund a wartime Expo in Belém in 1940, the Cristo Rei statue overlooking the Tagus and the impressive Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge (originally named the Ponte Salazar). But most of the population failed to prosper under his rule, and by the 1974 revolution which ushered in democracy, most of Lisbon was stuck in a time warp with little or no economic development. The modern city Entry into the EU and a series of events – including Expo 98, the hosting of the European Championships in 2004 and Lisbon’s new-found status as a hub for low-cost airlines – have seen money and development pour into the city, bequeathing new rail and metro lines and Europe’s longest bridge, Ponte Vasco da Gama. The historic bairros (districts) and riverfront have also been given makeovers. If some of the renovation has somewhat diminished the city’s erstwhile lost-in-time feel, it has also injected a wave of optimism that has made Lisbon one of Europe’s most exciting capitals.

Lisbon and around Best Beaches in Portugal Best Beaches / Europe / Portugal / Best Beaches in Portugal Best Beaches in Portugal Many of the best beaches in Portugal are found on the mainland in the southern half of the country. This doesn’t mean that beach enthusiasts should limit themselves to the southern part of the country or the mainland altogether, however. Portugal’s northwest coast offers some of the country’s most scenic beaches, and the Portuguese archipelago of Madeira can be a great place to go for some fun in the sun. Location aside, it should be noted that Portugal scores well with its Blue Flag beaches. More than 250 can be found throughout the country, to be more exact. For those who might not know, Blue Flag beaches are essentially known for their cleanliness and overall quality. The Algarve The Algarve region is a good place to begin discussions about the best beaches in Portugal. Found along the southern coast of the mainland, this main beach tourism area in the country is known for its mix of long sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and scenic rock formations. Only adding to the allure of the Algarve are its coves, caves, and grottos.

On the manmade side of things, the Algarve region of Portugal is recognized for its luxury resorts and hotel spas. Smaller, more affordable hotels are also in good supply throughout the region, and it has become increasingly popular in recent years to stay at a traditional guesthouse. Since there are so many great beaches in the Algarve region, it is hard to recommend just a few. That being said, the former Moorish town of Lagos boasts what is arguably the area’s best cove beach, while the resort areas of Albufeira and Praia da Rocha impress with their towering rock formations. It should be noted that many of Portugal’s best golf courses are found in the Algarve. The region also offers plenty of shops, restaurants, and nightlife venues. Costa do Sol The Costa do Sol, which is also known as the Estoril Coast and the Portuguese Riviera, can be found near Lisbon and boasts what many consider to be some of the best beaches in Portugal. This helps explain the popularity of the region’s beach resorts. Among the main beach resort destinations along the Costa do Sol are Estoril and Cascais. Estoril is a rather chic resort and has a historical reputation as a playground for monarchs.

The Praia Estoril Tamariz is the stretch of sand that attracts most Estoril visitors. Over in nearby Cascais, you can find some of the newest hotels in the Costa do Sol region, not to mention what are arguably the region’s finest restaurants. Also, since the sandy beaches of Cascais have less polluted waters than many of the other beaches in the area, they are among the region’s best places to swim. The Beiras The Beira Litoral (coastal) province of Portugal is centrally located along the west coast and offers some of the finest beaches that you will find in all of Europe. These beaches stretch from Praia de Leirosa in the north down to Praia de Espinho in the south. The rather famous resort of Figueira da Foz attracts more beachgoers than any other resort in the area, which is due in part to the fact that its gigantic sandy beach is the largest beach on mainland Portugal. It should also be noted that Figueira da Foz is among the most popular surfing destinations in Portugal. In 1996, it played host to the World Surfing Championships.

Buarcos is another popular resort in “the Beiras.” If you are looking for more secluded strips of sand in this area, you can head to the beaches between Praia da Mira and Costa Nova. As a side note, powerful surf and strong undertows can make it unsafe to swim in the Beiras. Yellow or red flags indicate when the swimming isn’t safe. Costa Verde Along the northern coastline of Portugal is a region that is known as Costa Verde. A popular tourist destination, it features some of the most dramatic beaches in Portugal, not to mention some of the country’s best hotels, restaurants, and watersports equipment rentals. Among the more notable beaches in the Costa Verde region is the wide and sandy beach at Ponte de Lima. Popular beach resorts include Espinho, Povoa do Varzim, and Ofir. Espinho is rather big and busy and features a casino. Varzim is well known for its culture and nightlife, while Ofir has pine forests that meet the beach and is more relaxing on the whole. Madeira Madeira is both an island and the name of the autonomous Portuguese archipelago that it belongs to.

You can find this archipelago a few hundred miles off the northwest coast of Africa and approximately 600 miles from Portugal. Flights to the main island of Madeira from Lisbon take about an hour-and-a-half. Since the archipelago of Madeira is comprised of volcanic islands, it doesn’t offer a lot in the way of regular sandy beaches. Instead, the beaches, at least the natural ones, tend to have black volcanic sand or pebbles. That being said, there are some sandy stretches for beach enthusiasts to take advantage of. The most notable is the long beach on the island of Porto Santo. It extends for miles and is devoted to tourism. Back on the main island of Madeira, the man-made beach known as Calheta is the only real stretch of golden sand. Whether they are sandy or not, the beaches in Madeira are great for sunbathing and swimming. Surfing is also possible, and the islands in general offer plenty of scenic allure.

Question: In which European country is Cascais Beach?
Answer: Portugal